Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama (BGCSA) mourns the loss of Maj. Gen. J. Gary Cooper USMC (RET). He was a distinguished former officer with the United States Marine Corps, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force, and United States Ambassador to Jamaica.
Major General Cooper’s legacy was not only shaped by his illustrious military career but also by his unwavering commitment to the Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama. He was a constant presence at BGCSA events, a testament to his firm belief in the transformative power of mentorship and education.
Cooper’s profound contributions to BGCSA led the organization to name a giving circle in his honor, the General J. Gary Cooper Giving Circle of Honor. This initiative, designed to perpetuate his legacy of compassion and generosity, has already begun to foster a culture of giving and support for the youth he held dear. His influence on the BGCSA is a constant reminder of the power of selfless service, mentorship, and empowerment, and his legacy will continue to shine as a beacon of hope and inspiration.
“Maj. Gen. J. Gary Cooper understood the importance of pouring into our youth,” Cory Penn, Director of Organizational Operations, states. “His dedication and advocacy for Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama leaves behind a lasting legacy that will never be forgotten.”
